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7 Things You Should Know About Formula Feeding

Here are some good-to-know facts about formula feeding, plus some surprises.

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Formula-fed babies need to eat less often. Formula made from cow’s milk is more difficult to digest than breast milk made by Mom. And the large curds it forms stay in the tummy longer, giving a baby a feeling of fullness that can last several hours. That adds up to longer breaks between feedings — up to three or four hours, even when babies are small — and potentially longer sleep periods (not a bad thing for exhausted moms and dads).

Warming formula before feedings isn't necessary. Think a baby can’t drink a bottle of formula unless it’s warmed up? Think again. There are no health benefits to heating up a bottle before a baby chows down. It’s simply a matter of taste — some babies prefer their formula warm, while others like it cold or at room temperature. What that boils down to is this time-saving tip: Getting your baby accustomed to unheated formula will save you a lot of effort in the long run. So consider serving up that bottle cold or room temperature from the start, and see if your little one takes to it. If he doesn't, though, and warming ends up being part of your regular bottle-prepping routine, don’t do it in a microwave oven: It heat liquids unevenly, creating hot spots that can burn a baby. Instead, warm the bottle in a bowl or pot of hot (not boiling) water…or use a specially designed bottle warmer.

Leftovers should always be tossed. What if your baby doesn't always drain his bottle during feedings? As tempting as it may be to save what’s left for later, don’t. Bacteria from a baby’s saliva can multiply in the bottle, so always toss any leftover formula. If you’re worried about waste, offer up smaller servings and give him a refill if he’s hungry for more.

All formula contains the same essential ingredients. While shopping for formula can be overwhelming — with all the different brands, types, and price points to choose from — the good news is that when it comes to nutrition, they are all created equal. That’s because formula is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, which requires manufacturers to include particular amounts of 29 specific nutrients in each serving — from protein and fat, to iron and calcium. (Some manufacturers include extras like fatty acids DHA and ARA — which studies show can help boost brain function. Some also include larger doses of iron — the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends iron-fortified over low-iron formula during a baby’s first year.) Even specialized formulas for babies that are low birth weight, lactose-intolerant, or suffering from reflux are subject to the same regulations. So whether you’re serving up powdered, liquid concentrate, ready-to-feed formula, or something specialized for your baby’s unique needs, rest assured no manufacturer will shortchange you when it comes to the required ingredients.

Formula makes a baby’s poop darker and smellier. Compare what’s in the diaper of a breastfed baby with a formula-fed baby and you’ll definitely see some differences. In general, formula poop smells stronger, is darker in color, and is firmer than breast-milk poop. But every baby is different, and so is their poop. Different smells and colors are nothing to worry about.

Formula feeding offers Mom more independence. No question about it — breastfeeding is demanding on Mom. She has to be at the ready nearly 24/7 — feedings have to happen frequently (every two hours for newborns) and the goods can only be delivered by her (unless she expresses her milk and lets someone else do the delivery). What’s more, a nursing mom has a few dietary restrictions (no alcohol, caffeine, or, unless she wants to pass it to her baby, spicy food) as well as a few fashion restrictions (button-down blouses and nursing bras are preferable for quick-and-easy access). Formula-feeding moms, on the other hand, have no such restrictions. They can eat what they want, drink what they want, and wear what they want (one-piece dresses that zip up the back? Bring ’em on!). And with the freedom that comes from letting anyone with access to a supply of bottles and formula stand in for feedings, a mom can spend more time away from her baby (spur-of-the-moment date night, anyone?).

Formula feeding allows for more family participation. Dad, Grandma, or an older sibling can share in the pleasures of feeding a baby when that baby is bottle fed. Take full advantage by encouraging your loved ones to think of mealtime as cuddle time. By holding that little bundle close, gazing into his eyes, stroking his cheeks, and singing him a lullaby, they’ll be giving him a large dose of love as well as nutrition. And exposing a baby to that kind of warmth and intimacy is essential for optimum brain development and attachment.

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